The high-tech piece of equipment is linked to Briggs' existing GPS system that provides real-time updates on its transport fleet movements.

Briggs Equipment has invested in technology to ensure smooth transport and logistics operations for its customers' materials handling fleets.

The exclusive dealer of Yale Europe Materials Handling products in the UK has installed a 50 in. (127 cm) LCD screen at its Cannock headquarters to monitor the movement of its transport delivery trucks. It is linked to Briggs' existing GPS system that provides real-time updates on the company's transport fleet movements.

"It's an old saying that time is money, and we recognise how important it is for customers to know when a vital piece of equipment is actually going to arrive onsite," says Shaun Dennis, the company's logistics manager.

The system, which can also be accessed from a computer anywhere in the world, enables Briggs to see where its transport vehicles are, so the company can instantly answer customer queries.

"As a result, we help customers plan ahead to ensure the efficient running of their operations - something that can ultimately save them money as well as time," Dennis says.

This investment is particularly helping the company's short-term hire department with its 'next day delivery' promise. Short-term hire manager Allan Parsons explains that customer expectations have increased significantly over the past few years. "When customers call us with an urgent requirement, it's critical for that business and we need to ensure that we deliver machines to the second, day-in, day-out."

Briggs is also investing over GBP3 million (USD4.7 million) with the addition of over 250 trucks to its short-term rental fleet this year.

Parsons says that difficult trading conditions in Europe have impacted on customer confidence. "We are seeing customers with needs for 12-month hires and not new trucks, but seeking lower rates, for example GBP60 (USD93) to GBP70 per week (USD109) for 2.5/3.0 T capacity trucks. This is a sure sign that customers are uncertain of the future and don't want to commit long term."

He adds that the lack of certainty is supported by higher prices and shortage of good used equipment. "Customers who don't want to commit to a three- or five-year plan are minimising their commitment with used trucks but this cannot continue.

"Sooner rather than later, there must be an injection of new equipment purchasing or used equipment will trend upwards in price towards parity with new equipment."